FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) has a P0171 code, what does that mean

my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) has a P0171 code, what does that mean

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
3 min read
553 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is displaying a P0171 code, indicating a lean fuel mixture condition in the engine.

Error Code
P0171
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before working on the intake or exhaust systems.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Reduced engine power during acceleration
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Engine hesitation during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to verify the P0171 code.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for vacuum leaks, including hoses and gaskets.
  3. 3Check the mass airflow sensor (MAF) for contamination or malfunction.
  4. 4Inspect the fuel system for proper pressure, including the fuel pump and fuel filter.
  5. 5Examine the exhaust system for leaks that may affect oxygen sensor readings.
  6. 6Test the oxygen sensors for proper function and response times.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and secure it with wheel chocks.

2. Inspect Air Intake System

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect all vacuum hoses connected to the intake manifold for cracks or disconnections.
    2. Use a smoke machine or propane to check for leaks in the intake system.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or gaskets as needed.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the MAF sensor.
    3. Clean the sensor with MAF cleaner; allow it to dry completely.
    4. Reinstall the sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Check Fuel System

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Attach a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail service port.
    2. Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (without starting the engine) and check the fuel pressure against manufacturer's specifications.
    3. If pressure is low, inspect and replace the fuel pump or fuel filter as necessary.

5. Inspect Oxygen Sensors

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors in the exhaust system.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connectors and remove the sensors.
    3. Use a multimeter to test the sensors for proper operation (check resistance and response to changes in air/fuel mixture).
    4. Replace any faulty oxygen sensors.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Vacuum gauge
  • MAF cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Multimeter
  • Socket set

Parts Required

  • Vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Oxygen sensors (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) have poor acceleration?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing poor acceleration, which may indicate underlying mechanical or electronic is...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  2. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) has a loud exhaust noise what's wrong

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a loud exhaust noise, indicating a potential issue with the exhaust system.

    Symptoms
    • •Loud exhaust noise, especially during acceleration
    • •Possible exhaust fumes noticeable near the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) stall when I stop

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing stalling issues when coming to a stop, indicating a potential problem with t...

    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalls when coming to a complete stop
    • •Rough idle or fluctuating RPMs before stalling
    • +{count} more
  4. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) has a grinding noise while driving

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle, a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), is experiencing a grinding noise while driving, indicating a potential issue wit...

    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise increases with vehicle speed
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) make a popping noise when driving

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a popping noise while driving, which could indicate a mechanical or suspensi...

    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise heard during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise occurs when turning or going over bumps
    • +{count} more
  6. how to troubleshoot transmission jerking in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle experiences transmission jerking during acceleration or shifting, indicating potential issues with the transmission s...

    Symptoms
    • •Jerking or harsh shifting during acceleration
    • •Delayed engagement or slipping of transmission
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation